Three Cases Of ATM Fraud In Brighton May Be Linked

Police investigating reports of bank card fraud at cash machines in Brighton believe the cases may be linked.

Three victims reported how their cards were swallowed at ATM machines at Sainsburys branches in the city centre.

The first happened on August 10th at the Old Steine branch at 3.45pm. 

A victim said a suspect stood behind him as he entered his PIN number. The machine did not return his card and the man told him to report it to the manager inside.

Sums of money were then taken from a cash machine at Lloyds Bank in North Street. A mobile phone was also purchased in a nearby phone shop, whose owner agreed to refund the victim.

The suspect is described as a short man of Middle Eastern appearance, 5’6” with black hair.

The second incident was reported on August 15 at the Sainsbury’s in Old Steine at 11.55am.

A woman was told to speak to a store manager. Inside the store she was advised by a manager to put a stop on her card.

Two men outside were seen taking her card and walking away.

The third incident was at 8.45am on August 18 at the Sainsbury’s store in Preston Road where the victim noted a message on screen warning her the machine was broken and someone was on their way to fix it.

After she left, funds were taken from her account. Two men stood behind the victim, and are described as white men in their mid 30s, who were wearing baseball caps.

Detective Sergeant Hannah Rayner said the incidents may be linked, and said there have also been reports of other ATM machines in Brighton and Hove being tampered with.

Det Sgt Rayner said:

“We are appealing for witnesses, anyone with information, or anyone who thinks they may have been a victim to come forward.

“You can report information about these incidents to us online here or call 101 and quote serial 1028 of 11/08.”

Det Sgt Rayner said crime prevention advice about ATM fraud is available on the Sussex Police website here.

Det Sgt Rayner added:

“There are some tell-tale signs of ATM fraud, which include looking out for any sign of suspect devices on the outside of cash machines.

“Some are more obvious than others. If you do see something suspicious contact the police and the bank.

“Remember, if it doesn’t look or feel right then steer clear and, if possible, go inside the bank where it will be safer. And always keep a regular check on your transactions.”